How do I get my film into distribution?
How do I get my film into distribution? (n.d.). Retrieved December 11, 2014, from http://www.independentcinemaoffice.org.uk/resources/distribution
The overall goal for filmmakers is to eventually see their productions on the big screen. The path the big screen can differ greatly for different directors. A traditional route for many filmmakers is to enter renown film festivals like the Sundance or Toronto film festival, these festivals open up the door to global markets. Films that are selected in these festivals are viewed by various world distributors who will ideally bid to distribute your production.
Another distribution option is through international sales agents. These agents usually have excellent relationships with festivals and buy worldwide rights which they sell to distributors all around the world. Therefore, these agents can play a vital role in entering your film in a festival and helping expose it to distributors.
It is also possible to use self-distribution by creating and paying for your marketing materials.
“In any major film festival showing 200 or more feature films, at least 40% of these will never get distribution in the UK and will not be seen again on a cinema screen in that country.”
“Visibility comes from advertising, festival exposure, reviews, word of mouth on preview screenings and is one of the hardest things to secure and to convince others you will have.”
This article really stresses the importance of film distribution through film festivals. It clearly states various ways to put your independent film in a festival, whether it be by doing it yourself or having an international sales agent do it for you. The exposure that film festivals give independent films can’t be replaced by any other means of distribution. Though it is difficult to get a film noticed in a film festival where there are dozens of other films, it is the best way to expose your work. Film festivals can aid in gaining contacts that can potentially launch your filmmaking career.
I appreciate this blog post a lot! It pleases me to see that there are guides and tips that help people today launch their ideas and projects that could possibly end up with big success. If I ever wanted to create and distribute any sort of medium I would love to have the aid and consultancy that would help me reach my goals :) ! Thanks - Ivan A.
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